By ,
Published November 20, 2014
SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) - From the attention to the defensive end to his post-goal celebrations, Joe Thornton has looked like a different player this year for the San Jose Sharks.
The player who used to be known for his immense offensive skill that made him one of the leading scorers since entering the league, is now making as big a contribution by forcing turnovers in his own zone or winning key faceoffs as he is with pinpoint passes that turn ho-hum plays into prime scoring chances.
The changes have been evident to his teammates and outsiders, even if Thornton professes that he's the same player he always has been. The new-look Thornton now gets ready to play a most familiar opponent as the Sharks gear up for their third second-round series against the Detroit Red Wings in five years.
https://www.foxnews.com/sports/thornton-shows-off-different-sides-this-season